Comparison of camera calibration methods for particle tracking velocimetry

Abstract Camera calibration is a key component of three-dimensional particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) experiments, and its proper implementation is key to the success of the method. In this paper, we review and compare four different camera calibration models used in PTV experiments without volumetric refinement. One of the calibration models is new and provides an analytical inversion of the Soloff polynomial. The other three calibration models are taken from three established open source PTV frameworks: OpenPTV, MyPTV and proPTV. In particular, we present a general formulation of calibration models that allows their rigorous comparison and evaluation with respect to their 3D-to-2D projection errors and 2D-to-3D reconstruction errors. We compare the models and the calibration errors in three different tasks, including extrapolation and interpolation of marker points, using a realistic calibration of an experimental camera setup. In the end, we conclude with the pros and cons of each method in order to be able to choose the most suitable one for individual needs.